News

Edmonton, AB – The Alberta Continuing Care Association (ACCA), in partnership with the Ministry of Assisted Living and Social Services, is pleased to announce the continuation of the Care for Staff grant program. This initiative is dedicated to promoting mental health and workplace conditions that impact mental health wellness.

Originally announced in 2023, the first Care for Staff initiative was made possible through a $2.5 million investment from the Government of Alberta under the Continuing Care Staff Mental Health Supports (CCSMHS) grant. The full amount was successfully distributed in 2024, with strong uptake across the sector. Recognizing the imperative need, the Government of Alberta has committed an additional $7.5 million, which will be dispersed over two years (2025 – 2027) to further support frontline staff mental health and workplace well-being.

"Continuing care staff show up day after day to support Albertans in some of their most vulnerable moments," says Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. "With this investment, we're making sure continuing care workers have support, too - we see you, we value you, and we're here to support you."

In its first year, the Care for Staff program supported over 12,400 continuing care staff throughout Alberta. A total of 126 participating organizations implemented a wide range of projects identified through direct engagement with staff to ensure that supports were meaningful, relevant, and grounded in frontline experience.  These included interventions based on the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace, as well as the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s “13 factors of psychological health and safety in the workplace". Benefits for staff can include more supportive and inclusive workplaces and improved work-life balance. An increase in mental health supports also benefits operators, as it can result in increased staff retention and lowered absenteeism and presenteeism.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) contracted Home and Community Care providers, as well as Type A, B and C Continuing Care Home operators, will be eligible to apply for funding. ACCA is collaborating with the Christian Health Association of Alberta (CHAA), Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association (ASCHA) and Continuing Care Safety Association (CCSA) to incorporate learnings from the 2023 - 2024 program evaluation and co-design an enhanced program. The Care for Staff 2.0 version will be responsive to the evolving needs of Alberta’s continuing care workforce, aligned with sector realities, and focused on sustainable impact.

“ACCA appreciates the opportunity to lead initiatives that directly invest in the people who form the foundation of our care system,” says Feisal Keshavjee, Chair of the ACCA Board. “By supporting staff wellness through programs like Care for Staff, we’re contributing to a healthier, more resilient workforce.”

Learn more about the Care for Staff program by contacting careforstaff@ab-cca.ca.

See the Release from the Government of Alberta.